DALLAS, SEPTEMBER 9, 2019 – The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild are pleased to announce the revival of a state-based vocal competition to alternate every other year with The Dallas Opera National Vocal Competition sponsored by the Guild.

The inaugural Texas-centric event, The Dallas Opera Guild Biennial Lone Star Vocal Competition, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 9, 2020 in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas, TX.

General Director and CEO Ian Derrer notes, “The Dallas Opera Guild has always had a special affection for homegrown talent. It’s easy to understand why the membership wished to return to that proud tradition and recreate that sense of excitement in an entirely new way.

“This new competition has our full support and should complement—beautifully—The Dallas Opera National Vocal Competition in 2021, which will continue to feature the full Dallas Opera Orchestra,” Derrer adds.

The Spring 2020 Competition—Chaired by Dr. Susan Fleming—will offer thousands of dollars in prize monies to Texas-based singers. The winner will also be guaranteed a spot in the Semi-Finals Round of The Dallas Opera’s national vocal competition taking place the following year, along with the chance to perform for an audience of Dallas Opera Board and Trustees.

The competition is open to singers ages 18 through 30 (as of the actual date of the 2020 Competition) who are Texas residents or students. Applicants may not have participated in any Young Artist or Resident Artist Program with a professional opera company, or, had a principal artist contract with any opera company.

Applications will be accepted only through YAP Tracker, beginning on January 10, 2020. Applications will close on February 14, 2020, and the competition semi-finalists will be announced on March 15, 2020. Additional details will be forthcoming later in the year.

The Dallas Opera is very pleased to announce the return of former Artistic Director Jonathan Pell (long associated with the original statewide competition) as one judge in the blue-ribbon panel, along with TDO’s Director of Artistic Administration David Lomeli and renowned arts administrator, educator and adjudicator Dr. Brian Zeger. On the faculty of The Juilliard School since 1993 and its Artistic Director of Vocal Arts since 2004, Dr. Zeger, who will head the panel, is also the former Executive Director of the Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Development Program.

“I am really delighted now to have been asked by the company and the Opera Guild to help re-launch this unique competition,” Jonathan Pell wrote. “In my long career in the arts, nothing ever brought me more satisfaction or joy than discovering and nurturing extraordinary young talent, and helping to foster the careers of a new generation of opera stars.”

2020 Competition Chair Dr. Susan Fleming remarked, “The Dallas Opera Guild is extremely proud of the many professional voices in development that we have fostered for more than three decades. We are eager to hear those who will be selected to compete this year and look forward to hosting an enthusiastic hometown crowd in the Winspear next May!

Now in her fifth year as a member of The Dallas Opera Board, Martha Allday has given her enthusiastic support to The Dallas Opera’s Hart Institute for Women Conductors, as well as the annual vocal competition.

With her husband, Dr. Robert Allday, Martha served as Guild Co-President during our second season in the Winspear Opera House (2010-2011). It was in that capacity that she became involved in the Guild’s annual vocal competition.

Beginning in the spring of 2010 with the world premiere production of Heggie and Scheer’s Moby-Dick, the Alldays have hosted numerous visiting artists (and, at times, their families) in their home during extended stays in Dallas.

“Every artist has a unique story about how they came to their careers in opera, and vocal competitions are frequently a part of that story,” Martha Allday writes. “Recognizing the importance of the competitions to artists in the critical, nascent stages of their careers, I feel it is incumbent upon us to support their development in this way.”

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HISTORY OF THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION:

In February of 1987, then-Dallas Opera Guild Presidents Connie and Jerry Klemow proposed establishing a Guild-sponsored scholarship fund to financially assist qualified singers seeking a career in opera. With the approval of TDO management and the enthusiastic support of Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Nicola Rescigno, a committee comprised of Chair Connie Klemow, Pat Blankenship, Nora Sands and Maria Santarelli, was entrusted to formulate a plan. Soon, the committee welcomed the assistance of then-General Director Plato Karayanis, company dramaturg Roger Pines and Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic John Ardoin.

Mr. Ardoin suggested a grants program be established in lieu of a scholarship fund or a competition. His suggestion was considered and the concept accepted. It was decided to focus on applicants from North Texas, ages 18-35 with some professional experience. Roger Pines named the program “The Career Development Grant for Singers” (CDGS), and after 20 months of planning the first CDGS program was presented on October 8, 1988 at SMU’s Caruth Auditorium.

However, for any program to remain dynamic, change and growth must occur. During these past 27 years there have been many changes. From the initial grants program, the concept evolved into The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition which, until 2014, was focused on vocalists with a Texas connection, both natives and temporary residents. A “People’s Choice Award” and Encouragement Awards were added and, today, financial awards are given directly to the winners to use at their discretion. Through this event, the Guild continues to recognize and honor members of The Dallas Opera community who have demonstrated a special interest in promoting the careers of talented young singers, or, have given exceptional support to The Dallas Opera and the Guild. Jonathan Pell led the Judge’s panel for the first 26 years.

The vocal competition was significantly re-imagined and expanded in its 27th year to allow applicants from all 50 states and U.S. Territories. Dr. Brian Zeger began chairing a judge’s panel that includes leading figures in American Opera administration and classical music.

The national competition was reorganized to take place over a two-day period. Finalists were accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra under the direction of the Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director Emmanuel Villaume through 2018 and under the baton of Maestro Riccardo Frizza in 2019.

Now, the competition has evolved yet again to serve the needs of accomplished young artists at both the statewide and national level.

The Dallas Opera Guild remains dedicated to its original commitment to recognize, honor and support exceptionally talented young singers. The distributed award monies are funded anew each year. Guild members graciously donate their time, energy, money and talents to ensure that these prestigious competitions, both national and Texas-centric, succeed in cultivating the next generation of world-class opera artists.

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ABOUT THE DALLAS OPERA:

One of the leading opera companies in the country, The Dallas Opera has an extraordinary legacy of world-class productions and thrilling premieres featuring the greatest operatic artists of our time. Inaugurated by the incomparable Maria Callas in 1957, TDO is known for the notable U.S. debuts of a host of legendary artists including Plácido Domingo, Dame Joan Sutherland, Jon Vickers, Franco Zeffirelli, and Sir David McVicar. The company has long been an industry leader and innovator through groundbreaking initiatives such as the Hart Institute for Women Conductors, free public simulcasts, acclaimed art song recitals, the national vocal competition, special concerts, and outstanding family and award-winning education programs. TDO’s home is the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House, a jewel in the Dallas Arts District. As one of the largest performing arts employers in North Texas, TDO is proudly committed to diversity, onstage and off, and is a major contributor to the economic vitality and international cultural reputation of this region.

Texas Instruments Foundation; the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs;

The Texas Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

American Airlines is the official airline of The Dallas Opera.

Lexus is the official vehicle of The Dallas Opera.

Advertising support from The Dallas Morning News.

All performances in The Dallas Opera’s 63rd International Season will take place in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center, unless otherwise indicated. Evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees begin at 2:00 p.m. unless otherwise stated. English translations will be projected above the stage at every performance and assistance is available for the hearing impaired.

TheJoy and Ronald Mankoff Pre-Opera Talk will begin one hour prior to curtain at most performances. Full and Flex subscriptions are designed to meet the needs of every budget. Prices range from just $57 (for three performances of your choice) to a top orchestra floor price of $777 for all five mainstage productions. Single tickets are priced from $25 to $289 (a few box seats may be higher). For additional information or to make your purchase, call 214.443.1000 or visit www.dallasopera.org.

Holly and Tom Mayer Honored for Their Leadership and Generous Support of The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild

DALLAS, MAY 3, 2019 – An elite group of twenty of the most talented young opera singers in the country competed this week for prestige and cash prizes in the 31st Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition.At the conclusion of this evening’s exciting Finals Round, hosted by Miss America 2019 Nia Franklin, the winners were announced from the stage of the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas:

This year, the twenty semi-finalists were selected from a group of 307 applicants from 36 states (residents of the U.S. territories are eligible to apply for the prestigious competition, as well) by a panel of preliminary judges that included American pianist and educator Dr. Brian Zeger of the Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts at The Juilliard School, and David Lomeli, Director of Artistic Administration for The Dallas Opera.

Xiaomeng Zhang, baritone, Artist Diploma in Opera Studies at the Juilliard School

The Semi-Finals Round took place yesterday, Thursday, May 2nd, as twenty young artists vied for the coveted position of finalist. After lengthy deliberations from the judges’ panel, six singers were selected to move into today’s Finals Round: contralto Lauren Decker, soprano Meghan Kasanders, soprano Diana Newman, tenor Christopher Oglesby, bass-baritone Christian Pursell, and baritone Reginald Smith, Jr.

The six finalists competed earlier this evening for a blue-ribbon judges panel, accompanied by the Dallas Opera Orchestra under the baton of the internationally renowned Music Director of the Donizetti Opera Festival in Bergamo, Italy, Maestro Riccardo Frizza.

Only patrons in attendance were eligible to vote for “the people’s choice.”

Dallas Opera Guild Co-Presidents Jan and James Clay explained, “Our exciting annual competition is the most high-profile facet of The Dallas Opera Guild’s year-long commitment to support exceptionally talented young opera artists. The future of opera, not only in Texas, but throughout the world, is dependent on the discovery and development of bright new talent. The Guild takes that part of our mission very seriously, and we are delighted at the number of people who turned out tonight to show their support for these fine young singers!”

Judges for the 2019 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Stephanie Blythe

Mezzo-soprano

Peter Czornyj

Vice President of Artistic Operations, The Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Ian Derrer

The Kern Wildenthal General Director & CEO, The Dallas Opera

Dominic Domingo

Director of Artistic Administration, San Diego Opera

Riccardo Frizza

Music Director of the Donizetti Opera Festival in Bergamo, Italy

David Lomeli

Director of Artistic Administration, The Dallas Opera

Andreas Melinat

Vice President, Artistic Planning, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Brian Zeger, Chair

Artistic Director of the Ellen and James S. Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts

Hailed by Opera News as “a wonderfully promising, rich dramatic soprano,” Meghan Kasanders “displays power and sheen at all dynamic levels.” This past year, she made her Carnegie Hall debut singing in Bernstein’s Songfest under the direction of Marin Alsop and the role of Magda Sorel in Opera Saratoga’s critically acclaimed production of The Consul. This year, she sings Sibelius’ Luonnotar with Maestra Barbara Hannigan and Donna Anna in Don Giovanni at the Juilliard School, where she will receive an Artist Diploma in opera studies in May. This summer, Meghan will attend the International Meistersinger Akademie in Neumarkt, Germany. Ms. Kasanders has worked with Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Opera Saratoga, Des Moines Metro Opera, Union Avenue Opera and the Institute for Young Dramatic Voices. Ms. Kasanders holds a Master’s degree from Rice University and a Bachelor’s from Simpson College.

During this evening’s Finals Round, Ms. Kasanders performed “Zachem zhe eti slyozi” from Tchaikovsky’s Pique Dame and “To This We’ve Come” from Giancarlo Menotti’s The Consul.

Second Prize Winner baritone REGINALD SMITH, JR.

Baritone Reginald Smith, Jr. has been lauded as a “passionate performer” (The New York Times) with an “electric, hall-filling” (The Baltimore Sun) and “thrillingly dramatic” voice (Opera News) that is “one of the most exciting baritone sounds to come along in years” (Opera News). A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Mr. Smith is a Grand Finals winner of the 2015 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, and graduate of the HGO Studio. This season, he has or will appear as Sharpless in Madama Butterfly with Opera Memphis, Amonasro in Aida with Opera Idaho, the baritone solo in Carmina Burana for the Houston Symphony, a debut with the New Jersey Symphony as the bass soloist in Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 (which he will also perform with the West Virginia Symphony), as well as a return to the rosters of Lyric Opera of Chicago and SFO.

Tenor and first-year San Francisco Opera Adler Fellow, Christopher Oglesby, was most recently a Resident Artist at Utah Opera where he sang Tybalt in Roméo et Juliette and was the tenor soloist for Handel’s Messiah with the Utah Symphony. As a participant in the 2018 Merola Opera Program, he debuted as Tom Rakewell in The Rake’s Progress. As an education artist at The Dallas Opera, he appeared in Mozart’s Bastien and Bastienne as well as Davies’ The Three Little Pigs. An active soloist and recitalist, Mr. Oglesby has performed with the Utah Symphony, the Abilene Philharmonic, Dallas Puccini Society, and in the Schwabacher Recital Series at San Francisco Opera. He holds Bachelor of Music degrees in Vocal Performance, Choral Education, and Band Education from Lee University and a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the University of North Texas.

In this evening’s Finals Round, Mr. Oglesby performed “Dies Bildnis ist bezaubernd schön” from Die Zauberflöte by Mozart and “Vary the Song” from Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress.

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Earlier, Dallas Opera Music Director Emmanuel Villaume noted, “This competition is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work at The Dallas Opera. Although it doesn’t seem possible, the caliber of the singers improves every year, and inspires us to continue to support and develop this excellent and much-needed program.”

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CONTRIBUTORS TO THE 2019 GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION INCLUDE:

Underwriters:

HOLLY AND TOM MAYER

(Matching Challenge)

KATHERINE & MICHAEL PHILLIPS

(The Jonathan Pell People’s Choice Award)

TEXAS INSTRUMENTS

(Sponsor of Miss America 2019 Nia Franklin as

Mistress of Ceremonies for the Finals Concert)

CHRISTOPHER A. SALERNO

(Donating the cost of lunches for all competition contestants, judges, accompanists and opera staff)

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DIAMOND PATRONS ($5,000 AND ABOVE)

HOLLY AND TOM MAYER

KATHERINE AND MICHAEL PHILLIPS

PLATINUM PATRONS ($2,500 – $4,999)

RICHARD AND ENIKA SCHULZE

TEXAS INSTRUMENTS

GOLD PATRONS ($1,000 – $2,499)

MARTHA AND DR. ROBERT ALLDAY

ELAINE AND BILL BLAYLOCK

PATSY AND BOB BROOKS

JAN AND JAMES CLAY

PATTI AND JOHN CODY

CINDY AND CHARLIE FELD

KETTY FITZGERALD

SUSAN FLEMING

SUSAN AND MARK GEYER

MARILYN AND WARD HALLA

SUE KRIDER

TOM AND PHYLLIS McCASLAND

JANE McCONNELL

MARTHA ROCHELLE

SANDRA AND BILL SANDERSON

STEVE AND BETTY SUELLENTROP

INGE AND SAM VASTOLA

For additional information about the Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition or any upcoming Dallas Opera Guild programs and special events, please contact The Dallas Opera Guild at 214-443-1040.

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2018-2019 SEASON SPONSOR

The Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family

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ABOUT THE DALLAS OPERA

Founded in 1957, The Dallas Opera is an internationally-recognized innovator dedicated to the overall advancement of the operatic art form and the support of established and emerging artists, as well as the education and development of new opera audiences in North Texas—and beyond. These goals are achieved by commissioning and producing world-class opera; through ground-breaking institutes, national competitions and topical programs; and by presenting opera in both traditional and non-traditional formats and venues in order to attract patrons of every age, background, educational level, and ethnicity—while engaging with more than 87,000 people in our community each year. TDO is equally committed to the task of responsible stewardship and is managed with efficiency and accountability, to the highest possible standards.

The Dallas Opera is supported, in part, by funds from: Elsa von Seggern Foundation, Texas Instruments Foundation, the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs;the Texas Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). American Airlines is the official airline of The Dallas Opera. Lexus is the official vehicle of The Dallas Opera.

Advertising support from The Dallas Morning News.

The Dallas Opera Family Performances are generously supported by

Texas Instruments, Lockheed Martin, and

The Betty and Steve Suellentrop Educational Outreach Fund

TDO Family Performances are a part of the

Perot Foundation Education and Community Outreach Programs

TICKET INFORMATION FOR THE 2018-2019 DALLAS OPERA SEASON

All performances are in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center unless otherwise indicated. Single tickets range from $19 to $289 (excluding boxes). Family performance tickets are just $5. For more information or to make your purchase, contact The Dallas Opera Ticket Office at 214.443.1000 or visit us online, 24/7, at www.dallasopera.org.

THE DALLAS OPERA 2018-2019 MAINSTAGE SEASON: SPRING

The Dallas Opera celebrates its 62ndInternational Season in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in the Dallas Arts District. Evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees begin at 2:00 p.m. unless otherwise stated. English translations will be projected above the stage at every performance and assistance is available for the hearing impaired. With the exception of FIRST NIGHT, TheJoy and Ronald Mankoff Pre-Opera Talk will begin one hour prior to curtain, at most performances.

MANON LESCAUT by Giacomo Puccini

Semi-Staged Concert, March 1, 3 (m), 6, 9, 2019

Featuring images of select art works from the collections of The Dallas Museum of Art!

The woman who has everything discovers too late that she has nothing – without true love!

To Compete for Awards and Cash Prizes at The 31st Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition

With The Dallas Opera Orchestra

Conducted by Riccardo Frizza

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Emceed by Miss America 2019 Nia Franklin

~~~~Semi-Finals: Thursday, May 2, 2019 11 am

Finals Concert: Friday, May 3, 2019 7:30 pm

The Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House

AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas, TX

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2019 Co-Chairs Dr. Susan Fleming & Linda McKown

Honoring Holly and Dr. Tom Mayer

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$5 Tickets and Information at dallasopera.org/vocal

DALLAS, TX, FEBRUARY 8, 2019 – Twenty of the finest young opera singers in the United States will be competing in the 31ST Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition presented, jointly, by The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild.

The artists will compete onstage in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas on Thursday, May 2 & Friday, May 3, 2019. At stake are thousands of dollars in generous cash awards and prestigious honors including the “People’s Choice Award” selected during the Finals Round by audience ballot.

The 2019 Guild Vocal Competition is being co-chaired by Susan Fleming, Ph.D., and Linda McKown and the Finals Round will be emceed by Miss America 2019 Nia Franklin, a classically trained opera singer, composer, and advocate for the arts.

The quest for these gifted young singers will begin with the Semi-Finals Round of the Vocal Competition taking place on Thursday, May 2, 2019, from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Tickets are free and can be obtained at www.dallasopera.org/vocal.

Six finalists will be selected that day to return the following evening for the Finals Round Concert on Friday, May 3, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. At that time, the remaining competitors will perform with The Dallas Opera Orchestra, conducted by the internationally renowned Italian Maestro Riccardo Frizza, Music Director of the Donizetti Opera Festival in Bergamo, Italy.

Concert tickets are just $5 and available at the door, by calling The Dallas Opera Ticket Office at 214.443.1000, or online at www.dallasopera.org/vocal.

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This year, the twenty semi-finalists were selected by a panel of preliminary judges that included American pianist and educator Dr. Brian Zeger of the Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts at The Juilliard School, and David Lomeli, Director of Artistic Administration for The Dallas Opera. These semi-finalists were among a group of 307 applicants from 36 states.

Xiaomeng Zhang, baritone, Artist Diploma in Opera Studies at the Juilliard School

Competitors in the 2018 Competition took home prize monies totaling $18,500. Although this competition has as its primary focus artists in the 18 to 34 age range, singers of any age were eligible to apply and considered on a case-by-case basis.

As the competition sought to gain even greater prominence and significance, The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild made significant changes in 2015, prompting Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic Scott Cantrell to write that the competition had “considerably upped its ante.” The evolution didn’t stop there:

In order to attract the most talented applicant pool with the greatest potential, the eligibility criteria for applicants changed. Today, it is open to residents of all 50 states and U.S. Territories, including international students attending American colleges, universities, and music conservatories. Also eligible are active members of any young artist program associated with an American opera company.

During the Finals Round, competing artists will be accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra, guided in 2019 by noted guest conductor Riccardo Frizza. Up to six finalists will participate, singing two arias each.

The impact of these changes was immediately perceived. Senior Classical Music Critic Gregory Sullivan Isaacs of theaterjones.com wrote: “The results surely exceeded expectations for this newly re-envisioned competition…It won’t take long to situate itself at the top of such events and become an important gold star on any young artist’s résumé.”

The special guest emcee for this year’s Finals Round, Nia Franklin, is the reigning Miss America who wowed the audience and judges during the competition with her rendition of “Quando m’en Vo” from La bohème. Ms. Franklin is a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts where she studied music composition.

“I am thrilled to be a part of the 31st Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition!” writes Ms. Franklin. “It is such an honor to emcee this competition featuring the best young opera singers from around the country as they share their talent and dedication for all of Dallas to see!”

This year’s honorees are Holly and Tom Mayer for their tremendous dedication, service and support of The Dallas Opera and its commitment to emerging and developing artists. Most recently, Holly served as Chairman of The Dallas Opera (2016-2018) and she continues to guide and inspire the company as a member of The Dallas Opera Board Executive Committee.

Dallas Opera Guild Co-Presidents James and Jan Clay remarked, “Our exciting annual competition is the most high-profile facet of The Dallas Opera Guild’s yearlong commitment to support exceptionally talented young opera artists. The future of opera, not only in Texas—but throughout the world—is dependent on the discovery and development of bright new talent. The Guild takes that part of our mission very seriously and we encourage everyone in the community to turn out next spring to show their support for these fine young singers, as well.”

Linda McKown, one of the 2019 Co-Chairs for the annual competition, writes: “I’m excited to be getting more involved with the Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition and doing what I can to help Susan Fleming carry out the Guild’s responsibilities. I feel it is so important to give these young opera singers the opportunity to perform before a live audience with Maestro Frizza conducting the outstanding Dallas Opera Orchestra.”

Adds Co-Chair Susan Fleming, “The Dallas Opera Guild is extremely proud of the many professional voices in development that we have fostered for more than three decades. We are eager to hear those who will be selected this year—twenty from over 300 applicants—and look forward to hosting a large audience on May 2 and 3, 2019.

“We encourage YOU to be part of the crowd that comes to the Winspear Opera House to cheer them on!”

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Lexus Red Parking beneath the Winspear Opera House is free for the Semi-Finals Round, from 11:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 2. Parking is $6 for the Finals Round of the competition the following evening, Friday, May 3, 2019 at7:30p.m.

The list of esteemed judges for the 2019 Vocal Competition reads like a music industry “Who’s Who.”

Judges for the 2019 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Peter Czornyj

Vice President of Artistic Operations, The Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Ian Derrer

The Kern Wildenthal General Director & CEO, The Dallas Opera

Dominic Domingo

Director of Artistic Administration, San Diego Opera

Riccardo Frizza

Music Director of the Donizetti Opera Festival in Bergamo, Italy

David Lomeli

Director of Artistic Administration, The Dallas Opera

Andreas Melinat

Vice President, Artistic Planning, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Evamaria Wieser

Casting Director, Salzburg Festival

Brian Zeger, Chair

Artistic Director of the Ellen and James S. Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts

The Juilliard School

However, the judging isn’t left entirely to the professionals; “amateur” music lovers will have the opportunity to express their views, too. Audience participation is part of the fun at each year’s Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition. For the nineteenth consecutive year, attendees will be given the chance to vote on their personal favorites to receive the coveted “People’s Choice Award.”

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RICCARDO FRIZZA CONDUCTOR

Award-winning Italian maestro Riccardo Frizza is a galvanizing presence on the podium, inspiring performances as exhilarating as they are expressive. Championed by Alberto Zedda, Bruno Cagli, and Gian Carlo Menotti, he is a leading exponent of the bel canto repertoire, collaborating with a who’s who of today’s most iconic singers at opera houses from Milan’s Teatro alla Scala to the Metropolitan Opera in New York. In the concert hall, he graces the podiums of such world-class ensembles as the Leipzig Gewandhaus, Rome’s Orchestra dell’Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, London’s Philharmonia Orchestra, and the Tokyo Symphony, while his extensive discography includes Decca’s Una furtiva lagrima, winner of the 2004 Cannes Classical Award.

Highlights of Riccardo Frizza’s last season included Falstaff at Festival Verdi di Parma, La Traviata at New National Theatre in Tokyo, Il barbiere di Siviglia at the Opéra National de Paris, Norma in Tokyo, Luisa Miller at Zürich Opera, L’elisir d’amore and Norma at Teatro La Fenice in Venice, Semiramide at the Bavarian State Opera and Il pirata at Teatro alla Scala in Milan. In September 2017, Maestro Frizza was named Music Director of the Donizetti Opera Festival in Bergamo, Italy. Having already conducted Roberto Devereux at San Francisco Opera, in other season highlights, he will appear at the podium of La Fenice three times (for three different productions), will return to Bilbao in order to conduct his debut performance of Verdi’s I Lombardi, and will conduct Falstaff in The Dallas Opera’s spring season finale in 2019.

NIA IMANI FRANKLIN (MISS AMERICA 2019)

Classically trained opera singer and advocate for the arts

Nia Franklin was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina and lived in the state through graduate school. She earned an undergraduate degree in composition from East Carolina University, and a master’s in fine arts from The University of North Carolina’s School of the Arts. Shortly thereafter, Nia was awarded a Kenan Fellowship at New York’s Lincoln Center Education and made the move to New York City. She currently resides in Brooklyn.

During Nia Franklin’s college freshman year, her father was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and she became his stem cell donor. This turn of events led Nia to the Miss America Organization. “I had to find a way to pay for myself to go to school and so I entered this competition and this organization and it became much more than just the scholarship money for me, it was also about the mentorship, leadership and sisterhood you find in this program.”

Nia was crowned Miss Five Boroughs at the age of 23, and then went on to win Miss New York 2018. And was awarded the job of Miss America 2019 on September 9, 2018.

Ms. Franklin has been a teacher and music mentor, and has written over 100 songs, including one she began performing at age five. (The lyrics begin: “Love, love, love, love, love is the only thing that matters to me…”). For the Miss America 2019 competition, Franklin sang “Quando m’en Vo’” from Puccini’s La bohème and wowed audiences and judges alike.

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HISTORY OF THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION:

In February of 1987, then-Dallas Opera Guild Presidents Connie and Jerry Klemow proposed establishing a Guild-sponsored scholarship fund to financially assist qualified singers seeking a career in opera. With the approval of The Dallas Opera management and the enthusiastic support of Artistic Director Nicola Rescigno, a committee comprised of Pat Blankenship, Nora Sands and Maria Santarelli, chaired by Connie Klemow, was entrusted to formulate a plan. Soon, the committee welcomed the assistance of then-General Director Plato Karayanis, company dramaturg Roger Pines and Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic John Ardoin.

Mr. Ardoin suggested a grants program be established in lieu of a scholarship fund or a competition. His suggestion was considered and the concept accepted. It was decided to focus on applicants from North Texas, ages 18-35 with some professional experience. Roger Pines named the program “The Career Development Grant for Singers” (CDGS) and after 20 months of planning the first CDGS program was presented on October 8, 1988 at SMU’s Caruth Auditorium.

However, for any program to remain dynamic, it must grow and evolve. During these past three decades there have been many changes, including the additions of a “People’s Choice Award,” and a significant name change to “The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition” in 2004.

From the initial grants program, the concept evolved into an annual competition that, until 2014, focused on vocalists with a Texas connection, both home-grown and temporary residents. Through this event, the Guild continues to recognize and honor members of The Dallas Opera community who have demonstrated a special interest in promoting the careers of talented young singers, or, have given exceptional support to The Dallas Opera and the Guild. Jonathan Pell, former Artistic Director of The Dallas Opera, led the Judge’s panel for the first 26 years.

The vocal competition was significantly reimagined and expanded in its 27th year, under the leadership of former Dallas Opera General Director and CEO Keith Cerny, to allow applicants from all 50 states and U.S. Territories. Dr. Brian Zeger, Artistic Director of Juilliard’s Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts and former Executive Director for the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program of the Metropolitan Opera now chairs a judge’s panel that includes leading figures in music administration and classical music.

The competition was expanded to take place over a two-day period. Participants in 2019 will be heard during Thursday’s semi-finals and the selected finalists will perform again Friday evening, accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra under the direction of Riccardo Frizza.

The Dallas Opera Guild remains dedicated to its original commitment to recognize, honor and support exceptionally talented young singers. The distributed award monies are funded anew each year. Guild members graciously donate their time, energy, money and talents to ensure that this prestigious annual competition succeeds in cultivating the next generation of world-class artists.

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SPECIAL THANKS

TO THE AT&T PERFORMING ARTS CENTER AND STAFF

FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE

2019 DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION

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2018-2019 SEASON SPONSOR

The Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family

~~~~

ABOUT THE DALLAS OPERA

Founded in 1957, The Dallas Opera is an internationally-recognized innovator dedicated to the overall advancement of the operatic art form and the support of established and emerging artists, as well as the education and development of new opera audiences in North Texas—and beyond. These goals are achieved by commissioning and producing world-class opera; through ground-breaking institutes, national competitions and topical programs; and by presenting opera in both traditional and non-traditional formats and venues in order to attract patrons of every age, background, educational level, and ethnicity—while engaging with more than 87,000 people in our community each year. TDO is equally committed to the task of responsible stewardship and is managed with efficiency and accountability, to the highest possible standards.

The Dallas Opera is supported, in part, by funds from: Elsa von Seggern Foundation, Texas Instruments Foundation, the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs;the Texas Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). American Airlines is the official airline of The Dallas Opera. Lexus is the official vehicle of The Dallas Opera.

Advertising support from The Dallas Morning News.

The Dallas Opera Family Performances are generously supported by

Texas Instruments, Lockheed Martin, and

The Betty and Steve Suellentrop Educational Outreach Fund

TDO Family Performances are a part of the

Perot Foundation Education and Community Outreach Programs

TICKET INFORMATION FOR THE 2018-2019 DALLAS OPERA SEASON

All performances are in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center unless otherwise indicated. Flex Subscriptions are on sale now; single tickets range from $19 to $289 (excluding boxes). Family performance tickets are just $5. For more information or to make your purchase, contact The Dallas Opera Ticket Office at 214.443.1000 or visit us online, 24/7, at www.dallasopera.org.

THE DALLAS OPERA 2018-2019 MAINSTAGE SEASON: SPRING

The Dallas Opera celebrates its 62ndInternational Season in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in the Dallas Arts District. Evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees begin at 2:00 p.m. unless otherwise stated. English translations will be projected above the stage at every performance and assistance is available for the hearing impaired. With the exception of FIRST NIGHT, TheJoy and Ronald Mankoff Pre-Opera Talk will begin one hour prior to curtain, at most performances.

MANON LESCAUT by Giacomo Puccini

Semi-Staged Concert, March 1, 3 (m), 6, 9, 2019

Featuring images of select art works from the collections of The Dallas Museum of Art!

The woman who has everything discovers too late that she has nothing – without true love!

DALLAS, JANUARY 31, 2018 – Twenty of the finest young opera singers in the United States will be competing in the 30th Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition presented, jointly, by The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild.

The artists will compete onstage in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas on April 27 & 28, 2018. At stake are thousands of dollars in cash awards and prestigious honors including the “People’s Choice Award” selected during the Finals Round by audience ballot. The competition will serve as the centerpiece of The Dallas Opera’s glamorous Springs Gala, an annual fundraising celebration of opera’s fast-rising stars benefiting The Dallas Opera’s highly acclaimed Education Program. Tens of thousands of children across North Texas benefit from this program.

The quest for these gifted young singers will begin with the Semi-Finals Round of the Vocal Competition on Friday, April 27, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. Tickets are free.

Six finalists will be selected to return the following evening for the Finals Round Saturday, April 28, 2018 at 7:30 p.m., to perform with The Dallas Opera Orchestra, conducted by the internationally renowned Emmanuel Villaume (TheMrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director). Tickets are $5 and available at the door, at www.dallasopera.org/vocal, or by calling 214-443-1000.

Internationally acclaimed Music Director Emmanuel Villaume will conduct The Dallas Opera Orchestra for the Finals Competition. (Photo by Akos Photography)

The Springs Gala features a gourmet dinner on Saturday, April 28, at 5:30 p.m.; one Vocal Competition Finals ticket with early seating (event begins at 7:30 p.m.); and an invitation to the festive post-competition celebration at the Winspear Opera House. Tickets start at $750 for a single ticket; tables are available starting at $7500. For more information about the 2018 Springs Gala, visit dallasopera.org/gala or contact Special Events Manager Tracy Mott at tracy.mott@dallasopera.org. Proceeds will go to support the multifaceted education programs of The Dallas Opera, which serves thousands of students and teachers throughout the region.

Two great Dallas Opera traditions create one truly remarkable evening of music, competition and celebration! It is certain to be an affair—and a weekend—you won’t want to miss!

~~~~

This year, the twenty semi-finalists were selected from a group of 364 applicants from 35 states—and one competitor currently residing in Germany (residents of the U.S. territories are eligible to apply for the prestigious competition, as well) by a panel of preliminary judges that included American pianist and educator Dr. Brian Zeger of the Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts at The Juilliard School, and David Lomeli, Casting and Hart Institute for Women Conductors Manager.

“We are very proud to collaborate with our Guild on this extraordinary showcase,” says Kern Wildenthal, The Dallas Opera’s Interim General Director and CEO. “This is a great opportunity for the entire community to experience opera’s exciting ‘next wave,’ and to show their enthusiastic support for the dreams of these outstanding young artists who will be the opera stars of the future.”

Competitors in the 2017 Competition took home prize monies totaling $18,500. Although this competition has as its primary focus artists in the 18 to 34 age range, singers of any age were eligible to apply and considered on a case-by-case basis.

As the competition sought to gain even greater prominence and significance, The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild made significant changes in 2015, prompting Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic Scott Cantrell to write that the competition had “considerably upped its ante.” The evolution didn’t stop there:

In order to attract the most talented applicant pool with the greatest potential, the eligibility criteria for applicants changed. Today, it is open to residents of all 50 states and U.S. Territories, including international students attending American colleges, universities, and music conservatories. Also eligible are active members of any young artist program associated with an American opera company.

The Finals Round, now taking place on as part of The Dallas Opera’s annual Springs Gala, will be accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra, conducted by TDO’s internationally acclaimed Music Director, Emmanuel Villaume. Up to six finalists will participate, singing two arias each.

The impact of these changes was immediately perceived. Senior Classical Music Critic Gregory Sullivan Isaacs of theaterjones.com wrote: “The results surely exceeded expectations for this newly re-envisioned competition…It won’t take long to situate itself at the top of such events and become an important gold star on any young artist’s résumé.”

Dallas Opera Guild Co-Presidents Jan and James Clay explain, “Our exciting annual competition is the most high-profile facet of The Dallas Opera Guild’s year-long commitment to support exceptionally talented young opera artists. The future of opera, not only in Texas, but throughout the world, is dependent on the discovery and development of bright new talent. The Guild takes that part of our mission very seriously, and we encourage everyone in the community to turn out next spring to show their support for these fine young singers!”

Dallas Opera Guild 2018 Vocal Competition Chairs Patsy and Bob Brooks write: “The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition gives singers pursuing a professional opera career the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete with other singers for financial rewards. Best of all is the chance to perform before a panel of distinguished judges celebrated throughout the opera world.”

Lexus Red Parking is available for just $5 at both the Semi-Finals Round, from 11:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, April 27 as well as the Finals Round of the competition the following evening, Saturday, April 28 at7:30p.m. in the Winspear Opera House.

The list of esteemed judges for the 2018 Vocal Competition reads like a music industry “Who’s Who”:

Judges for the 2019 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Brian Zeger, Chair

Artistic Director of the Ellen and James S. Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts

The Juilliard School

Emmanuel Villaume

The Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director, The Dallas Opera

Peter Czornyj

Vice President of Artistic Operations, The Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Kathleen Kelly

Associate Professor of Music, University of Michigan

Former Director of Music Studies, Vienna State Opera

Alain Lanceron

President of Warner Classics

Andreas Melinat

Vice President Artistic Planning, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Pål Moe

Casting Director, Bavarian State Opera;

Casting Consultant, Glyndebourne Festival and Opéra de Lille

However, the judging isn’t left entirely to the professionals; “amateur” music lovers will have the opportunity to express their views, too. Audience participation is part of the fun at each year’s Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition. For the nineteenth consecutive year, attendees will be given the chance to vote on their personal favorites to receive the coveted “People’s Choice Award.”

~~~~

HISTORY OF THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION:

In February of 1987, then-Dallas Opera Guild Presidents Connie and Jerry Klemow proposed establishing a Guild-sponsored scholarship fund to financially assist qualified singers seeking a career in opera. With the approval of The Dallas Opera management and the enthusiastic support of Artistic Director Nicola Rescigno, a committee comprised of Pat Blankenship, Nora Sands and Maria Santarelli, chaired by Connie Klemow, was entrusted to formulate a plan. Soon, the committee welcomed the assistance of then-General Director Plato Karayanis, company dramaturg Roger Pines and Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic John Ardoin.

Mr. Ardoin suggested a grants program be established in lieu of a scholarship fund or a competition. His suggestion was considered and the concept accepted. It was decided to focus on applicants from North Texas, ages 18-35 with some professional experience. Roger Pines named the program “The Career Development Grant for Singers” (CDGS) and after 20 months of planning the first CDGS program was presented on October 8, 1988 at SMU’s Caruth Auditorium.

However, for any program to remain dynamic, it must grow and evolve. During these past three decades there have been many changes, including the additions of Encouragement Awards, a “People’s Choice Award,” and a significant name change to “The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition” in 2004.

From the initial grants program, the concept evolved into an annual competition that, until 2014, focused on vocalists with a Texas connection, both home-grown and temporary residents. Through this event, the Guild continues to recognize and honor members of The Dallas Opera community who have demonstrated a special interest in promoting the careers of talented young singers, or, have given exceptional support to The Dallas Opera and the Guild. Jonathan Pell, former Artistic Director of The Dallas Opera, led the Judge’s panel for the first 26 years.

The vocal competition was significantly reimagined and expanded in its 27th year, under the leadership of former Dallas Opera General Director and CEO Keith Cerny, to allow applicants from all 50 states and U.S. Territories. Dr. Brian Zeger, Artistic Director of Juilliard’s Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts and former Executive Director for the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program of the Metropolitan Opera now chairs a judge’s panel that includes leading figures in music administration and classical music.

The competition was expanded to take place over a two-day period. Participants in 2018 will be heard during Friday’s semi-finals and the selected finalists will perform again Saturday evening, accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra under the direction of the Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director Emmanuel Villaume.

The Dallas Opera Guild remains dedicated to its original commitment to recognize, honor and support exceptionally talented young singers. The distributed award monies are funded anew each year. Guild members graciously donate their time, energy, money and talents to ensure that this prestigious annual competition succeeds in cultivating the next generation of world-class artists.

~~~~

ABOUT THE DALLAS OPERA

Founded in 1957, The Dallas Opera is an internationally-recognized innovator dedicated to the overall advancement of the operatic art form and the support of established and emerging artists, as well as the education and development of new opera audiences in North Texas—and beyond. These goals are achieved by commissioning and producing world-class opera; through ground-breaking institutes, national competitions and topical programs; and by presenting opera in both traditional and non-traditional formats and venues in order to attract patrons of every age, background, educational level, and ethnicity—while engaging with more than 87,000 people in our community each year. TDO is equally committed to the task of responsible stewardship and is managed with efficiency and accountability, to the highest possible standards

The Dallas Opera is supported, in part, by funds from: Elsa von Seggern Foundation; Texas Instruments Foundation; the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs;the Texas Commission on the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

American Airlines is the official airline of The Dallas Opera. Lexus is the official vehicle of The Dallas Opera. Advertising support from The Dallas Morning News.

The Dallas Opera Family Performances are generously supported by

Texas Instruments, Lockheed Martin, and the Betty and Steve Suellentrop

DALLAS, FEBRUARY 7, 2017 –Twenty of the finest young opera singers in the United States will be competing in the 29th Annual Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition presented, jointly, by The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild. These talented artists will compete onstage in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas on April 29 & 30, 2017. At stake are thousands of dollars in cash awards and coveted honors including the “People’s Choice Award” selected during the Finals Round by audience ballot. The competition will serve as the centerpiece of The Dallas Opera’s glamorous Springs Gala, an annual fundraising celebration of opera’s fast-rising stars. Patrons have the option of attending • The free Semi-Finals Round on April 29th • The complete Springs Gala evening on April 30th • The Finals Round and Awards Ceremony only on April 30th • Or, the Finals Round, Awards Ceremony and the post-performance party!

Tickets range from absolutely free (for the April 29th Semi-Finals) to $5 for the Finals Round and Awards Ceremony (available online at dallasopera.org/vocal). A $750 “host ticket” will cover the entire gala evening, including a seated, gourmet, pre-competition dinner at 5:30 p.m., early seating for the vocal competition Finals Round at 7:30 p.m., and an invitation to the festive post-competition celebration at the Winspear Opera House. For more information about the 2017 Springs Gala, visit dallasopera.org/gala or contact Special Events Manager Tracy Mott at tracy.mott@dallasopera.org.

With a renewed focus on encouraging the next generation of opera artists and audiences, proceeds from this stellar evening will go to support the multifaceted education programs of The Dallas Opera. Two great Dallas Opera traditions create one truly remarkable evening of music, competition and celebration! It is certain to be an affair—and a weekend—you won’t want to miss!

Commented Dallas Opera General Director and CEO Keith Cerny: “The Guild Competition took a bold step forward in recent years and the results have been electrifying! Emmanuel Villaume and The Dallas Opera Orchestra have brought a significant level of excitement to these performances and clearly inspired last year’s finalists to rise to the occasion. “However, each competition brings an entirely new set of challenges and gives us additional opportunities to build upon our previous success. “Working closely with Dr. Brian Zeger, our esteemed adjudicators, and the Guild itself, we continually seek new ways to attract the very finest young singers of this generation. Their presence on the Winspear stage also promises to make our second annual Springs Gala: An Evening of Rising Stars, one of the most sought-after tickets in town. “I am also extremely pleased that, with the energetic leadership of Brian Zeger,” Cerny adds, “we have been able to assemble such a distinguished panel of industry leaders and decision makers to judge this stellar event, making it a unique showcase for artists ready to take their careers to a higher level.”

~~~~ This year, the twenty semi-finalists were selected from a group of 364 applicants from 35 states—and one competitor currently residing in Germany (residents of the U.S. territories are eligible to apply for the prestigious competition, as well) by a panel of preliminary judges that included American pianist and educator Dr. Brian Zeger of the Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts at The Juilliard School, and David Lomeli, Casting and Hart Institute for Women Conductors Manager. The quest for these gifted young singers will begin with the Semi-Finals Round of the Vocal Competition at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 29, 2017. Six finalists will be selected to return the following evening, Sunday, April 30th at 7:30 p.m., to perform with The Dallas Opera Orchestra, conducted by internationally acclaimed Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director Emmanuel Villaume.

“I am very proud to collaborate with our Guild on the expanded national competition,” adds Keith Cerny, the Kern Wildenthal General Director and CEO. “This is an outstanding opportunity for the entire community to experience opera’s ‘next wave’ and to show their enthusiasm and support for the hopes and dreams of these deserving young artists.”

Competitors in the 2016 Competition took home prize monies totaling $18,500. Although this competition has as its primary focus artists in the 18 to 34 age range, singers of any age were eligible to apply and considered on a case-by-case basis. The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition originally focused on young artists with Texas roots or Lone Star academic connections, and its many distinguished alumni include luminaries from throughout the opera world: Latonia Moore, Clifton Forbis, Marjorie Owens, Weston Hurt, Steven LaBrie, Amanda Woodbury, Jesus Garcia, J’nai Bridges, Anthony Clark Evans, and most recently, Kang Wang and Virginie Verrez. As the competition sought to gain even greater prominence and significance, The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild made significant changes in 2015, prompting Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic Scott Cantrell to write that the competition had “considerably upped its ante.” The evolution didn’t stop there:

• In order to attract the most talented applicant pool with the greatest potential, the eligibility criteria for applicants changed. Today, it is open to residents of all 50 states and U.S. Territories, including international students attending American colleges, universities, and music conservatories. Also eligible are active members of any young artist program associated with an American opera company.

• The Finals Round, taking place on Sunday, April 30, 2017 at 7:30 pm in the Winspear Opera House as part of The Dallas Opera’s annual Springs Gala, will be accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra, conducted by TDO’s internationally acclaimed Music Director, Emmanuel Villaume. Up to six finalists will participate, singing two arias each.

The impact of these changes was immediately perceived. Senior Classical Music Critic Gregory Sullivan Isaacs of theaterjones.com wrote: “The results surely exceeded expectations for this newly re-envisioned competition…It won’t take long to situate itself at the top of such events and become an important gold star on any young artist’s résumé.” Dallas Opera Guild Co-President Jana Irwin explained that “The Dallas Opera Guild views this annual competition as the capstone of our philanthropic and supportive endeavors. The need to support the future of opera is so profound, particularly as it relates to young and somewhat unknown singers. As singers are selected, their professional stature automatically increases due to press and media exposure. However, the competition itself provides additional benefits for these singers, as well as the local opera community. It is truly a win-win situation for all concerned.” Dallas Opera Guild 2017 Vocal Competition Chairs Bob and Patsy Brooks write: “The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition gives singers pursuing a professional opera career the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete with other singers for financial rewards. Best of all is the chance to perform before a panel of distinguished judges celebrated throughout the opera world.”

Lexus Red Parking is available for just $5 at both the Semi-Finals Round, from 11:00 AM until 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 29th as well as the Finals Round of the competition the following evening, Sunday, April 30th at 7:30 p.m. in the Winspear Opera House.

The list of judges for the 2017 Vocal Competition reads like an opera management “Who’s Who”:

Judges for the 2017 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Brian Zeger, Chair Artistic Director of the Ellen and James S. Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts The Juilliard School

Keith Cerny The Kern Wildenthal General Director and CEO of The Dallas Opera

However, the judging isn’t left entirely to the professionals; “amateur” music lovers will have the opportunity to express their views, too. Audience participation is part of the fun at each year’s Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition. For the eighteenth consecutive year, attendees will be given the chance to vote on their personal favorites to receive the “People’s Choice Award.” ~~~~

Honoring Dr. Susan Fleming This year’s vocal competition honors former Dallas Opera Guild President and current Board Member, Dr. Susan Fleming, renowned for her philanthropy and leadership as well as her continuing work with children with communication disorders. As a bachelor’s and master’s student in speech pathology and audiology at SMU, she thrived in the classroom. Her career path included working at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital, directing the preschool at the Greenhill School and maintaining her own private practice. Over the years, Dr. Fleming honed her skills by providing evaluations of children, designing curriculum and working in admissions. She joined the Shelton Evaluation Center (a division of the Shelton School) in 1993; serving as director until 2009 when she became director emeritus of the center. Dr. Fleming dedicates her time away from work to numerous professional and volunteer organizations. She is co-chair of the Dream Team of the Rotary Club of Dallas, a program that provides mentors, encouragement and scholarships to local high school students who might otherwise be unable to attend college. Dr. Fleming recently became a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) in Dallas, appointed by judges to work for a year with specific children removed from their home environments by CPS. This UT Dallas Distinguished Alumni Award winner has held numerous positions with the Dallas Opera Guild Board. “I am touched by my selection,” writes Susan Fleming, “as this places me in the company of the dynamic guild leaders I have admired; those who have contributed so much to The Dallas Opera Guild’s effectiveness in promoting and sustaining the annual Vocal Competition. “Each person who contributes to this competition,” she adds, “should feel proud to be helping promote young singers as they strive for success in this especially beautiful art form.” ~~~~ SPECIAL THANKS TO THE AT&T PERFORMING ARTS CENTER AND STAFF FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE 2017 DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION

2016-2017 SEASON SPONSOR The Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family

~~~~ FOR HIGH-RESOLUTION PHOTOGRAPHS Contact Suzanne Calvin, Director of Media and PR at suzanne.calvin@dallasopera.org Or Celeste Hart, Communications Manager at celeste.hart@dallasopera.org ~~~~ The Dallas Opera Family Performances are generously supported by Texas Instruments and the Betty and Steve Suellentrop Educational Outreach Fund.

TDO Family Performances are a part of the Perot Foundation Education and Community Outreach Programs

TICKET INFORMATION FOR THE 2016-2017 DALLAS OPERA SEASON

All performances are in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center unless otherwise indicated. Single Tickets range from $19 to $275. Full Subscriptions (five opera productions) begin at $95; Flex Subscriptions (three-performances of your choice) begin at $75. Family performance tickets are just $5. For more information or to make your purchase, contact The Dallas Opera Ticket Services Office at 214.443.1000 or visit us online, 24/7, at www.dallasopera.org.

THE DALLAS OPERA 2016-2017 SPRING SEASON INFORMATION

The Dallas Opera celebrates its Sixtieth International Season in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in the Dallas Arts District. Evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees begin at 2:00 p.m. unless otherwise stated. English translations will be projected above the stage at every performance and assistance is available for the hearing impaired. The Joy and Ronald Mankoff Pre-Opera Talk will begin one hour prior to curtain, at most performances excluding FIRST NIGHT of the season.

* Dallas Opera Debut ** American Debut ______________________________________________________________________________________ The Dallas Opera is supported, in part, by funds from: Texas Instruments Foundation, TACA, City of Dallas, Office of Cultural Affairs; the Texas Commission on the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). American Airlines is the official airline of The Dallas Opera. Lexus is the official vehicle of The Dallas Opera. Advertising support from The Dallas Morning News. A special thanks to the Elsa von Seggern Foundation for its continuing support.

THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FROM ACCOMPLISHED, YOUNG AMERICAN SINGERS!

~~~~

Chaired by Dr. Brian Zeger

TDO Orchestra and Finalists Conducted by

Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director

Emmanuel Villaume

~~~~

Finals Round Scheduled for Sunday, April 30, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.

Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House

The AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas, Texas

DALLAS, TX – The Dallas Opera is pleased to announce that applications for the expanded and updated Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition, scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. (the free Semi-Finals Round, open to the public) and Sunday, April 30, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. (Finals Round) are now being accepted.

Applications MUST be submitted via YAP Tracker, along with a $35 entry fee. Go to www.dallasopera.org/vocal for the link. The deadline for applications is 11:59 p.m. (Central Time) on Sunday, November 20, 2016.

Those chosen by preliminary round judges to advance to the competition semifinals in the acoustically acclaimed Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center will be personally notified in mid-January 2017, with a public announcement to follow in early February.

Competitors in the 2016 Competition took home prize monies totaling $18,500. Although this competition has as its primary focus artists in the 18 to 34 age range, singers of any age may apply and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

As the competition sought to gain even greater prominence and significance, The Dallas Opera and The Dallas Opera Guild made significant changes in 2015, prompting Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic Scott Cantrell to write that the competition had “considerably upped its ante.” This year, the evolution continues:

In order to attract the most talented applicant pool with the greatest potential, the eligibility criteria for applicants changed. Today, it is open to residents of all 50 states and U.S. Territories, including international students attending American colleges, universities, and music conservatories. Also eligible are active members of any young artist program associated with an American opera company.

The Finals Round, taking place on Sunday, April 30,2017 at 7:30 pm in the Winspear Opera House as part of The Dallas Opera’s annual Spring Gala, will be accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra, conducted by TDO’s internationally acclaimed Music Director, Emmanuel Villaume. Up to six finalists will participate, singing two arias each.

The impact of these changes was immediately perceived. Senior Classical Music Critic Gregory Sullivan Isaacs of theaterjones.com wrote: “The results surely exceeded expectations for this newly re-envisioned competition…It won’t take long to situate itself at the top of such events and become an important gold star on any young artist’s résumé.”

The Dallas Opera is very pleased to announce the return of renowned arts administrator, educator and adjudicator Dr. Brian Zeger as Chair of the Judges Panel for the 2017 Vocal Competition. On the faculty of The Juilliard School since 1993 and Artistic Director of Vocal Arts at Juilliard since 2004, Dr. Zeger is also the former Executive Director of the Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Development Program.

A prominent broadcast professional and frequent guest on the Metropolitan Opera radio broadcasts, Dr. Zeger has also contributed critical essays for publications such as Opera News, Chamber Music Magazine and The Yale Review. He has participated in countless summer festivals: Ravinia, Santa Fe, Caramoor, Aldeburgh and Aspen, as well as the Cape Cod Chamber Music Festival where he served as artistic director from 1993-2000. This native New Yorker has also adjudicated the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, the Concert Artists Guild Auditions and the Walter W. Naumberg Vocal Competition.

Commented General Director & CEO Keith Cerny: “The Guild Competition took a bold step forward in recent years and the result has been tremendously gratifying! Emmanuel Villaume and The Dallas Opera Orchestra have brought a significant level of excitement to these performances and clearly inspired last year’s finalists to rise to the occasion.

“However, each competition brings an entirely new set of challenges and gives us additional opportunities to build upon our previous successes.

“Working closely with Dr. Brian Zeger, our esteemed adjudicators, and the Guild, we continually seek new ways to attract the very finest young singers of this generation. Their presence on the Winspear stage also promises to make our annual Spring Gala one of the most sought-after tickets in town.”

Judges for the 2017 Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition:

Brian Zeger, Chair

Artistic Director of Juilliard’s Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts

Keith Cerny

General Director and CEO, The Dallas Opera

Emmanuel Villaume

Music Director, The Dallas Opera

Andreas Melinat

Director of Artistic Planning, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Pal Moe

Casting Director Bavarian State Opera,

Casting Consultant to Glyndebourne Festival and Opera d’Lille

Joshua Winograde

Senior Director of Artistic Planning, Los Angeles Opera

Diane Zola

Director of Artistic Administration, Houston Grand Opera

Dallas Opera Guild Co-President Jana Irwin explained that “The Dallas Opera Guild views this annual competition as the capstone of our philanthropic and supportive endeavors. The need to support the future of opera is so profound, particularly as it relates to young and somewhat unknown singers. As singers are selected, their professional stature automatically increases due to press and media exposure. However, the competition itself provides additional benefits for these singers, as well as the local opera community. It is truly a win-win situation for all concerned.”

Dallas Opera Guild 2017 Vocal Competition Chairs Bob and Patsy Brooks write: “The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition gives singers pursuing a professional opera career the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete with other singers for financial rewards. Best of all is the chance to perform before a panel of distinguished judges celebrated throughout the opera world.”

ABOUT THE 2017 DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION

Potential applicants are encouraged to check TDO’s website for more information about the application process: www.dallasopera.org/vocal. The entry fee is $35. Applications must be submitted exclusively through YAP Tracker — no later than 11:59 p.m. (Central Time) on Sunday, November 20, 2016. Semi-Finalists will be notified by January 10, 2017. Additional info can be obtained by contacting The Dallas Opera at vocalcompetition@dallasopera.org.

The Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House is conveniently located in the heart of the Arts District at 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, TX 75201.

HISTORY OF THE DALLAS OPERA GUILD VOCAL COMPETITION:

In February of 1987, then-Dallas Opera Guild Presidents Connie and Jerry Klemow proposed establishing a Guild-sponsored scholarship fund to financially assist qualified singers seeking a career in opera. With the approval of The Dallas Opera management and the enthusiastic support of Artistic Director Nicola Rescigno, a committee comprised of Pat Blankenship, Nora Sands and Maria Santarelli, chaired by Connie Klemow, was entrusted to formulate a plan. Soon, the committee welcomed the assistance of then-General Director Plato Karayanis, company dramaturg Roger Pines and Dallas Morning News Classical Music Critic John Ardoin.

Mr. Ardoin suggested a grants program be established in lieu of a scholarship fund or a competition. His suggestion was considered and the concept accepted. It was decided to focus on applicants from North Texas, ages 18-35 with some professional experience. Roger Pines named the program “The Career Development Grant for Singers” (CDGS) and after 20 months of planning the first CDGS program was presented on October 8, 1988 at SMU’s Caruth Auditorium.

However, for any program to remain dynamic, change and growth must occur. During these past 27 years there have been many changes. From the initial grants program, the concept evolved into The Dallas Opera Guild Vocal Competition which, until 2014, was focused on vocalists with a Texas connection, both natives and temporary residents. A “People’s Choice Award” and Encouragement Awards were added and, today, financial awards are given directly to the winners to use at their discretion. Through this event, the Guild continues to recognize and honor members of The Dallas Opera community who have demonstrated a special interest in promoting the careers of talented young singers, or, have given exceptional support to The Dallas Opera and the Guild. Jonathan Pell, former Artistic Director of The Dallas Opera, led the Judge’s panel for the first 26 years.

The vocal competition was significantly reimagined and expanded in its 27th year, under the leadership of Dallas Opera General Director and CEO Keith Cerny, to allow applicants from all 50 states and U.S. Territories. Dr. Brian Zeger, Artistic Director of Juilliard’s Marcus Institute for Vocal Arts and former Executive Director for the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program of the Metropolitan Opera now chairs a judge’s panel that includes leading figures in American Opera administration and classical music.

The competition was expanded to take place over a two-day period. 2017 participants will be heard during Saturday’s semi-finals and the selected finalists will perform again Sunday evening, accompanied by The Dallas Opera Orchestra under the direction of the Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director Emmanuel Villaume. Both events are held in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House in the AT&T Performing Arts Center and, this year, for the very first time, the Finals Round will be incorporated into the company’s glamorous, annual Spring Gala.

The Dallas Opera Guild remains dedicated to its original commitment to recognize, honor and support exceptionally talented young singers. The distributed award monies are funded anew each year. Guild members graciously donate their time, energy, money and talents to ensure that this prestigious annual competition succeeds in cultivating the next generation of world-class artists.